The life and Solas of the party

The Lincoln City Cultural Center’s Celtic music series continues on Wednesday, March 25, when internationally celebrated Irish-American band Solas makes its first appearance in Lincoln City.

For more than three decades, Solas has been regarded as one of the most influential groups in modern Celtic music. Formed in New York City in 1995, the band helped reshape Irish traditional music by blending virtuosic instrumental performance with contemporary arrangements and a repertoire that draws from Irish folk traditions, American roots music and modern songwriting.

The group’s current lineup includes three original members: multi-instrumentalist Séamus Egan, fiddler Winifred Horan and accordionist John Williams. Each musician brought deep roots in Irish traditional music along with influences from folk, bluegrass and global traditions, creating a sound that felt both deeply traditional and boldly new.

From their earliest recordings, the members of Solas gained international recognition for inventive arrangements and exceptional musicianship. Their albums have become staples of the Celtic music world, and the band has performed on major stages and festivals throughout North America, Europe and beyond.

Solas concerts move easily between high-energy reels and jigs, expressive ballads and original compositions. The group’s dynamic stage presence and storytelling have introduced generations of listeners to Irish traditional music.

Throughout the years, Solas has also served as a launching point for many respected Celtic and folk musicians. While the lineup has evolved, the band’s core spirit remains adventurous, virtuosic and rooted in the living tradition of Irish music.

“This is a special moment for our Celtic series,” said Jason Corso, program director at the cultural center. “Solas has played a huge role in shaping modern Irish music over the last 30 years. Their musicianship is extraordinary, and their concerts are full of energy, emotion and incredible playing. We’re thrilled to welcome them to Lincoln City for the first time.”

Wednesday’s concert begins at 7 pm at the Lincoln City Cultural Center, located at 540 NE Hwy. 101. Tickets are $50. The main seating for the performance has already sold out, but a limited number of overflow seats remain available. For more information, go to lincolncity-culturalcenter.org or call 541-994-9994.